States are riding the current of the federal government’s new directives to elevate quantum information science from theoretical to commercial application, paving the way for future development and innovation opportunities.
The federal administration signed two Executive Orders (EO) in June 2026 making up the core of its latest pioneering efforts to capitalize and advance quantum computing innovation. Notably, while these orders reflect an increased focus on innovation, they did not include any new financial investments in the field.
The first order sets the goal to develop a large-scale quantum-enabled supercomputer by 2028. The second directs department leaders to establish post-quantum cryptography by 2031 to protect critical information and systems where current encryption fails.
Although progress has been made on creating impactful quantum computing technologies, the nascent field has still not cracked the code for an applicable supercomputer. The EOs have moved the projected development timetable, establishing ambitious deadlines without adjusting existing budgets. These directives also incur a sense of urgency – if a quantum computer is placed at a Department of Energy (DOE) facility ahead of schedule, the administration will have to make up ground to secure it with effective post-quantum cryptography.
The White House’s push on harnessing quantum technologies has extended far beyond the federal level. States are following suit or ahead of the curve, implementing their own programs and investments to stay in the lead of the global innovation race. To stay competitive, they’re investing in regional and local efforts to usher in a new age of quantum computing and discovery.
Connecticut is among those that have already taken definitive steps toward unlocking quantum power. The state has already committed more than $1 billion to support its quantum innovation ecosystem. Among these measures, Connecticut allocated $121 million in late 2025 to a public-private partnership (P3) between the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), the University of Connecticut (UConn) and Yale University.
The P3 – known as QuantumCT – is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the state’s leadership in the quantum sector through development, workforce training and commercialization. Of that initial investment, roughly $61 million was immediately made available. The remaining $60 million will be delivered after QuantumCT secures a federal award from the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines initiative.
The award will enable QuantumCT to launch a cutting-edge, deep-tech incubator in New Haven, combining co-working and lab space with engineering and materials characterization capabilities, quantum testbeds and onsite technical expertise. The facility is the latest in dedicated quantum infrastructure for the state, previously opening similar facilities at UConn and Yale.
In Arizona, the city of Phoenix announced the Phoenix Quantum Strategy earlier this year to position the city as a national quantum hub. Lead in part by Arizona State University (ASU), the initiative will combine industry, higher education and government to leverage quantum innovation as a transformative facet for economic growth within the semiconductor, supply chain and biosciences industries.
Massachusetts has revealed its own plans after announcing a $25 million investment to establish a regional quantum hub at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) earlier this year. The Quantum Systems Laboratory (QSL) will pry open the gate to scientific research and discovery by creating a shared-use facility operating as a quantum toolbox. Once completed, it will be the first in the world to consolidate state-of-the-art quantum computers with quantum sensors, peripherals and interconnections.
These represent a few examples of the larger nationwide push to catalyze quantum innovation at the local, state and federal levels. As all levels of government continue pushing innovation in these fields, more opportunities will arise targeting municipalities, private companies, universities and research institutions.
Based on previous EOs, it’s likely that new Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) and grant programs centered around quantum development will open following federal directives and funding priorities. Private and public entities will have the chance to develop new facilities and initiatives tied to hundreds of millions of dollars to help position the nation as the global leader in this groundbreaking industry.
Photo by Jimmy Chan from Pexels
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